Mitchell Wills

ADVANCE, Mo. -- Mitchell Doyle Wills, 84, of Advance passed away Tuesday, March 22, 2011, at his home.

He was born June 17, 1926, at McGee, Mo., son of Earl and Frances McLeary Wills.

Mitchell was a lifelong educator, teacher and principal. He had worked at Yokum, Stepp, Zalma and Advance schools. He was a 50-year-plus member of Zalma Masonic Lodge 545 AF&AM. He was also a member of Whitewater and St. Mark's Order of Eastern Star.

Mitchell and Genevieve Dobbs were married Oct. 11, 1946, in Piggott, Ark.

He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II.

Survivors include his wife; a son and daughter-in-law, Terry and Alisha Wills; two daughters and sons-in-law, Carol and Larry Waddle, Sue and Keith Kinder; a sister, Bonnie Rhodes; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Earl Wills Jr.

Visitation will be from 4:30 to 8 p.m. today at Morgan Funeral Chapel in Advance. Masonic rites will be at 7:30.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the chapel, with the Rev. Larry Underwood officiating.

Burial will be in McGee New Hope Cemetery in McGee, with full military rites conducted.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Shady Dell General Baptist Church or a charity of your choice